Division I is up for grabs. Although Westfield, the reigning champion, is still one of the strongest teams in the region, they are not far and away the only team with a claim to the 2014 title: West Springfield, a pleasant surprise following last year’s 3-17 record, has the best record in school history, and the No. 1 seed. The Terriers were the strongest team throughout the season. Central, led by Vanderbilt-commit Isan Diaz, has had an incredible second-half, and has the most momentum built up heading into the tournament. There’s also Cathedral, a perennial powerhouse, which should never be counted out.

5. Minnechaug – A solid team all the way around, the upset-minded Falcons will look to continue their trend of scoring almost as often as they get hits (113 runs on 120 hits).

6. Chicopee- The Pacers’ .380 team batting average and .450 team on-base percentage makes Chicopee a ferocious lineup to face. Watch out.

7. Pittsfield – Although facing a predominantly Division III schedule in the Berkshires, Pittsfield’s impressive 5-1 record against Valley League teams is no joke. Kevin Donati has been incredible at the plate.

8. Chicopee Comp – Cam Kagan’s breakout year at the plate and Mike Bombard’s strong performances on the hill has brought the Colts back to the tournament, but they’ll need a full-team effort to advance.

Boasting two of the best offensive players in the region (Comp’s Cam Kagan and Ludlow’s Alex Lafayette), this game has all the makings of a fireworks display. With the runs not hard to come by, this game will be decided by whichever team gets the better pitching performance. Expect Mike Bombard to go for the Colts while Dimitri Bryant should get the nod for Ludlow.

Pick: Although the Colts beat the Lions 4-3 and 6-4 during the regular season, the Lions will take this one. The Lions are the dark horse of this tournament.

Champion picks

Although they didn’t get the top pick, Westfield still seems like the strongest team to me. Considering the depth in the top half of the bracket, Westfield could have a relatively easy path to the title game. -Mark C. Volain

Not receiving a Super 8 bid will be the motivation for Westfield to show the rest of the state that the two-time defending champs are kings of the West. With three talented pitchers on the staff, and timely hitting from the heart of the order, make it a three-peat for the Bombers -Brandon Chase